by Peggy Zimmer

“Can you grab a restaurant pan for the roasted chicken?” Ally Howell asks as I step into the already-busy kitchen at the Barton Hub. “And can you find some pot holders? These pans are going to be hot,” she adds. The luncheon unfolds like a carefully choreographed dance: everyone knows their role, moves with purpose, and stays mindful of those working around them.

Once a month, on a Thursday, the Westmore Association prepares lunch for at least 30 people in the Barton area under the expert guidance of Ally Howell of NEKO (Northeast Kingdom Organizing). The group usually builds each meal around a theme; September’s theme was fall, of course. The menu featured homemade butternut squash soufflé, fall-themed coleslaw, applesauce, cider chicken stew, pulled pork, and barbecued chicken. When the soufflé reached only about two-thirds of the guests, the servers quickly cut each remaining piece in half so everyone would have enough.

For those of us who serve and cook, the luncheon is deeply rewarding because the guests are so appreciative. One attendee volunteered that meals prepared by the Westmore group are always her favorite. Another remarked that the food reminded her of her favorite restaurant.

Each month also brings local music and fresh produce donated by the Barton Giving Garden and other area farmers.

As I leave with my empty dish, it’s clear to me that the luncheon is one of the Westmore Association’s most meaningful events. It meets a real need, gives back to the wider community, and brings people together around a shared table—creating a genuine sense of connection, belonging, and community.